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I just found out that I’m pregnant. I'm going through interviews, so when do I tell potential employers?

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Anonymous

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I just found out that I’m pregnant. I'm going through interviews, so when do I tell potential employers?

I’m a contract employee and have been searching for a more permanent position. During what point of the interview process should I tell a possible employer that I’m pregnant, or should I even tell them?

This is my second pregnancy and the first time I didn’t tell my employer until the 2nd trimester. But, I don’t want an employer to fee blindsided if a few weeks into the job I say I’m pregnant.

Any advice from those that either have been in this situation or have experience in HR is appropriated!

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  1. Anonymous

    You don't during the interview process or even at time of offer. You tell your employer when you are comfortable doing so.

  2. Janice Mason

    i went thru the interview process knowing I needed to have surgery in a few weeks and would need to be off for two weeks (possibly six weeks) . When I was offered the position, I told them at that time, stating I decided to tell them IF the position was offered to me. My boss (to be), spoke to her boss and they decided to still offer the position to me. The problem, as I see it, is if you tell them at the interview, they can decide not to offer it.

  3. Anonymous

    If it were me, I wouldn’t share this during the interview process at all. I would ensure all paper work regarding the offer is signed, sealed, delivered, and then I’d tell my boss either during my first week or when I felt comfortable.

    The timing somewhat depends on how far along you are, and it’s mostly to be courteous to your boss/team who will have to find some coverage while you’re on leave. Your boss might not appreciate not knowing in advance, but it’s not up to them to dictate your timeline.

  4. Anonymous

    It's not really something that should play into the job interview process. It would really be up to you. You are not obligated to share.

  5. Anonymous

    Congratulations on your pregnancy!

    Agree with not sharing until after you have secured the job.

    in my experiences, unfortunately being pregnant and taking leave has never “helped” me get a job, opportunities on a project or anything really positive for me business-wise.

    if you’re able to secure a job, recommend building your community at work and home to help you ensure continued work/ positive reviews and for who will cover for you when you’re out.

    good luck!!

  6. Katheryn M

    Don't share until you have finished probation and all your benefits kick in.

  7. Lea Beatrice

    I wouldn't tell anyone at work during the process, especially if you're not showing yet. Similar to another poster, I started a job knowing I was going to need surgery in the next few months and a few weeks off.

    I know several women who don't disclose pregnancy until after they start the job. Sure, the hiring manager may be irritated by it, but that's a reflection on them. And their irritation actually reinforces why we women don't disclose pregnancy until we absolutely have to.

  8. Krystin Morgan

    I wouldn't share anything during the interview process. While it's illegal to discriminate based on pregnancy, it still happens and keeping it under wraps can help mitigate that.

    If you want to understand what you'd be eligible for in terms of parental leave, you can tell them once they've given you an offer (if you're comfortable sharing at that point).

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